Final answer:
The Habilines, particularly Homo habilis, were the earliest members of the Homo genus. They had a larger brain size compared to australopithecines and were capable of making tools with their hands.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Habilines were the first members of the genus Homo, with Homo habilis being one of the earliest species. They lived approximately 2.5 to 1.4 million years ago in East Africa. Homo habilis had several distinctive characteristics that contributed to the evolution of the Homo genus. They had a brain size of about 600 to 750 cubic centimeters, which was larger than that of the australopithecines. They also had hands capable of tool-making due to changes in bone structure and thumb positioning. The skillful use of tools is even reflected in the species' name, 'H. habilis,' which means 'handy man.'